Proclaiming Christ to Those in Search of the Unknown God Finding the Word in Words by Nicholas Samaras Summer 2016
The “trick” of poetry (notwithstanding epic poetry) is the ability to fit a universe into one page. Poetry is the art of containing universal truths in the briefest of space, extolling clarity and artistry. With that in mind, here is a brief, poetic consideration of finding the Word in words:
There is no faith without language.
Perhaps, some may be familiar with Tennyson’s famous line, “With no language but a cry.” Perhaps, some may be familiar with documented stories of Heaven or of earthly encounters with forms of Divinity (saints, angels, the Lord), in which communication has been described as telepathic. But still, even in considering telepathy, even in considering the limitations of language,
Even God Himself speaks to people, in the Bible. Therefore, it is wisdom for us to value the Word that has been described as containing all words – which is everything we have in order to acquire knowledge and wisdom. We need words to get us through words to reach stillness. And the stillness of being (that God extols) can only be shared with the expression of words, the way we are able to understand, clarify, and grow. We need language to get us through misunderstanding, to define and refine whatever the growth message may be. Only through language may we come to clarity and understanding. This is why it’s not enough to read Scripture; it’s enough to reflect upon Scripture, to come to its understanding in how it may help our lives and living circumstances, how it may help us be better. Thus, we may realise that language is not only communication, but language is communion – with a sacred element to it. If we take time to consider the elements of God, we must realise, first, that everything in creation is based on dialogue. The nature of God is dialogue. The nature of prayer is dialogue. Honestly, we may then find that there is no such thing as monologue, because everything invites a response. Everything offered invites a receipt. Consider this distilled excerpt from a writing that exemplifies this understanding: If you understand being as the conscious atoms of your breath, then you understand God.
Photo by Kim Piotrowski
there is no faith without language. There is no communication without language translating thought, knowledge, experience, wisdom – all moving intention from one person to another, one soul to another. Whether in this world or in a spiritual realm, all communications, emotions, and knowledge are translated through transmission and comprehension: hence, words – our symbology that conveys meaning. Even our inarticulate cries convey meaning via expression.
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This is why the value of words, enabling people to communicate intention to each other.
If you understand God as the dialogue of love, then you understand Jesus Christ. If you understand the transfiguration of love, then you understand the Holy Spirit. What is love but the desire to give and to share? Then, you understand the Holy Trinity. Considering the Nature of God From the Holy Trinity, we are offered everything in existence, and it is up to us to reflect upon this and be willing to respond. Even a silent gesture is communicative; we’ve all experienced understanding through witnessing a meaningful look.
